Heroic Measures by Jill Ciment

Do you realize one could possibly write a story about those ordinary circumstances that occur during your daily life? This is one of those stories.

This was my first exposure to this author although the author has written several novels, a collection of short stories and a memoir. I’ve already placed a hold on her memoir because I’d like to know more about this author.

This is the story of Dorothy (a 12-year old beloved pet), Alex (an artist) and Ruth (a former school teacher. The setting is New York City. Alex and Ruth have just decided to sell their apartment and are amazed that they will be getting close to one million dollars for it. They are a bit concerned about moving to another place but Ruth feels that the end is encroaching upon them and it’s time for a major move.

Dorothy‘s hind legs have collapsed and she is in pain. Alex and Ruth take her out of the apartment on a cutting board and carry her down the stairs into the street until they are able to get a taxi to the veterinarian hospital.

This is their story. A day filled with angst in a city that is perhaps the most stress filled in the world. It is the type of story that a friend might relay to another friend.

I liked this story. I guess I’ll have to admit that I cheated and went to the end of the book early on to make sure Dorothy did not meet her demise. In that way I avoided a tearful, stressful time on my part. Now that you know, you can just read away till the end.

A good book. I think you’ll like it.

Ladybookbug!